Travel tips

Are you going on a business trip? We strongly advise against taking drugs. Not only for health reasons, but also because the penalties for drug use or possession are much more severe in some countries than in the Netherlands. 

Drugging

Even when you’re on a business trip abroad, you run the risk of being drugged. Drugging refers to the act of administering a drug or medication to someone without their knowledge or consent. It is done for various reasons. Drugging someone is illegal. It is considered a criminal offense under the law, classified as assault.

Typically, this involves someone secretly adding a drug or medication to the victim's drink. These substances are often referred to as "date-rape drugs." A well-known example of a drug that is put in a drink is GHB. Another substance, Scopolamine (commonly known as "Devils’ Breath") is used in the same manner, particularly in South American countries, and also affects the victim's consciousness.

Another form of drugging is called ‘needle spiking’, where the victim is injected with a substance using a needle. In practice, this method is quite difficult to carry out, leading to uncertainty about whether it actually occurs or if the drugs are simply mixed into drinks or food.

Effects of drugging

Seek medical help immediately if you suspect you have been drugged. The effects of drugging can include nausea, a feeling of weakness, memory loss, hallucinations, dilated pupils, changes in heart rate, insomnia, or unconsciousness. More information on this topic can be found here: drugsinfo.

Some tips:

• Never leave food or drinks unattended while traveling on business.
• Keep your hand or a lid over your drink.
• Do not accept food or drinks from strangers or new acquaintances.
• If your drink tastes strange or different, dispose of it immediately.
• Seek medical assistance right away if you think you have been drugged.